Pokémon Go July 2026: Anniversary Events and Raid Schedules
July 2026 marks the tenth anniversary of Pokémon Go, with Niantic scheduling a month-long celebration headlined by the global Go Fest 2026 event. Players can participate in various rotating raid schedules, including Legendary, Mega, and Max Battle rotations, alongside special anniversary-themed research tasks. The month features recurring events such as “Choose Your Path” challenges and the introduction of new Mega Evolutions, according to the official event calendar.
What is the Pokémon Go July 2026 Event Schedule?
The month is structured around the 10th Anniversary Party, which runs from July 4 to July 6. The primary highlight, Go Fest 2026: Global, is scheduled for July 11–12. Following the festival, players can access the Special Anniversary Pikachu Celebration from July 13 to July 20. Other notable dates include the Raichu Super Mega Raid Day on July 18 and the Ozone Ascent event on July 25–26.
Which Legendary Pokémon are appearing in Raids?
Five-star raids will feature a rotating schedule of Legendary Pokémon throughout July. Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres are available in early July and again from July 13–14. Kyogre follows from July 15–21, Solgaleo appears from July 22–28, and Kyurem concludes the month starting July 29.
According to game meta-analysis, focusing on Kyurem is recommended for players looking to optimize their Ice-type rosters. Players who possess sufficient Fusion Energy can use a strong Kyurem to facilitate a transformation into Black or White Kyurem, significantly increasing its competitive viability.
How do Mega and Max Battles work this month?
Mega Raids provide Mega Energy rather than direct captures of the evolved form. The July schedule includes Mega Lucario (July 1–5, 13–14), Mega Sceptile (July 15–21), Mega Salamence (July 22–28), and Mega Aggron (July 29–August 4). Additionally, developers have announced the global release of Mega Mewtwo X and Y, as well as Mega Raichu X and Y, during the Go Fest celebrations.
Max Battles, a core feature of the current season, feature the following Pokémon:
- Chansey: July 6–12
- Deino: July 13–19
- Trubbish: July 20–26
- Hoothoot: July 27–August 2
Capturing a Dynamax Deino is advised, as its final evolution, Hydreigon, remains a high-tier choice for competitive play.
What about Shadow Raids?
Shadow Palkia will headline five-star Shadow Raids throughout the month. Unlike previous iterations, players can now utilize Remote Raid Passes for these encounters, provided they have the necessary in-game currency. As these raids require higher coordination than standard encounters, reviewing specific Shadow Raid mechanics is recommended for players attempting the fight.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I catch a shiny Shadow Palkia? Yes, Shadow Palkia can appear in its shiny form during the July raid rotation.
- Do I need a ticket for Go Fest 2026: Global? No, the global portion of Go Fest 2026 is free for all players, though additional optional ticketed components may be offered by Niantic.
- Can I use Remote Raid Passes for Shadow Raids? Yes, current game updates allow the use of Remote Raid Passes for Shadow Raid encounters.
- What is the best Mega Evolution to focus on? Mega Lucario is widely considered the top priority for combat efficiency, though Mega Mewtwo releases may shift the meta during the festival.
Stay updated on the latest shifts in the Pokémon Go meta by checking our Max Battle guide or subscribing to our weekly newsletter for raid rotation alerts.
